Astral Aviation launched the first direct cargo route between China and Africa this week with the maiden freighter flight between the Chinese city of Haikou and the continent’s leading cargo gateway, Johannesburg.
Operated by a Boeing 767-300 carrying 48 000 tonnes of goods, this milestone underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening China-Africa trade. Haikou is the capital of China’s Hainen province, which houses the country’s free trade port.
The Kenyan cargo airline announced this route would cater for the transport of a wide variety of goods, including e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, electronics, textiles, perishables and general cargo.
Commenting on the development, Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation, said: “The launch of the Haikou–Johannesburg service represents more than just a new route; it is a bridge between China and Africa that will facilitate trade, investment, and economic growth. We are proud to play a role in unlocking the immense potential of this corridor.”